Torbay Council have had their Statutory Direction noticed lifted from its Children Services following a recent Good rating by OFSTED.
In May 2021 Torbay Council Children’s Services was rated as inadequate following the last two inspections by OFSTED and the Department of Education. On Thursday 26th May 2022 Torbay Council received notification that their notice had been lifted.
A Statutory Notice is what is given to a council that is required to take continuous steps to improve its Children and Social care services.
The news was confirmed by Will Quince, MP, Parliamentary Secretary of State for Children and Young Families, Department for Education who described the turn around from inadequate to good as a “an impressive achievement over what has been a very challenging period”.
The OFSTED that has recently been completed on Torbay Council’s children services has shown significant improvements since their previous inspection in 2018.
OFSTED inspectors have highlighted a highly effective approach to recruitment and retention, strong strategic partnerships, the creation of a clear and ambitious improvement plan and a strong political and corporate commitment to Torbay’s improvement agenda.
Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Torbay Children’s Services at Torbay Council said:
“The news that the revised Statutory Direction has now been lifted is a significant symbol of our transformative journey.
“However, we will not rest on our laurels. This recognition from the government shows that we now have the foundations needed to continue to make the improvements required as we continue to work hard to build on our vision for a Child Friendly Torbay, where all children can thrive.”
Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader at Torbay Council said:
This a fantastic achievement for the whole council and we are thrilled to hear the government comment that this is “an impressive achievement.”
“It is important that we continue to operate with this whole council approach, keeping the needs of vulnerable children at the forefront of our priorities.”
